ACLU Asks The State To Modify Its Traffic Stop Guidelines

The American Civil Liberties Union of North Carolina is asking the state Division of Motor Vehicles to adjust its traffic stop guidelines, saying drivers should understand they have the right to remain silent when pulled over by a police officer.

Current DMV guidelines suggest drivers are required to answer an officer's questions during a traffic stop.

The News and Observer reports that Susanna Birdsong, policy counsel for the ACLU North Carolina, has requested a clarification.

Birdsong asked DMV Commissioner Torre Jessup to amend the language to make it clear motorists have the right to remain silent after identifying themselves and providing their license and registration.

A DMV spokesperson says Jessup has not yet considered the request, but there is still time to make adjustments.

North Carolina lawmakers passed a bill last summer directing the DMV to update the guidelines that appear in the driver license handbook.